Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley is participating in the Pontifical Academy for Life’s conference titled ‘Common Good: Theory and Practice’, where she also held private discussions with Pope Francis about ethical responses to today’s global challenges, from environmental issues to socio-political disparities.

Pope Francis welcomed Prime Minister Mottley in a private audience, followed by a meeting with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, and Monsignor Mirosław Wachowski, under-secretary for relations with states. In a statement from the Holy See Press Office, the Vatican noted “satisfaction” over the “good relations between Barbados and the Holy See”.

Discussions covered mutual priorities such as environmental stewardship, the impacts of climate change, and pressing socio-political issues facing Barbados and the Caribbean.

“Honoured to have met with His Holiness, Pope Francis,” Mottley posted to her X account. “I deeply value our conversation as I believe it was a timely reminder of the power of unity and shared responsibility for the common good.”

The conference includes a dialogue between Prime Minister Mottley and Mariana Mazzucato, an economist known for her work on public value and innovation. Their discussion will explore how a renewed economics centred on the common good can address critical challenges tied to health, biodiversity, climate adaptation, and the responsible development of artificial intelligence.

For Prime Minister Mottley, the Vatican visit highlights Barbados’ dedication to advancing sustainable policies that align with the principles of social equity and environmental care. As a climate-vulnerable island nation, Barbados plays an essential role in advocating for the needs of developing nations facing ecological and economic threats due to global warming.